Publications

Current Fact Sheets

PREVENTIVE HEALTH AND HEALTH SERVICES BLOCK GRANT APPROPRIATIONS

The Centers for Disease Control and Preventive Health and Health Services Block Grant is presently funded at $135 million. The Administration’s FY2001 budget proposes level funding for this program, not even an inflationary increase. Last year the Block Grant funding was cut by $15 million. The funding cut could result in decreased screenings for chronic diseases, a reduction in emergency medical services in rural areas, and weakened community health education efforts in many states.

We support a FY2001 appropriation of $210 million. The increase will enable all States, the District of Columbia, Territories, and eligible Indian Tribes and Tribal Organizations to enhance their health education and risk reduction activities, cholesterol and hypertension screening, sex offenses prevention program, and other important public health priority activities.

Basic Facts About the Preventive Health & Health Services Block Grant

The Block Grant was established in 1982 to help states focus on achieving the health objectives for the nation identified in Healthy People 2000.

States receiving block grant dollars must develop health plans, report to the federal government about their activities, and target public health interventions to populations in need.

The flexible provisions of the grant allow each state to address health problems unique to that State.

CDC's Preventive Health & Health Services Block Grant

CDC provides States funding to carry out programs aimed at reducing preventable morbidity and mortality and improving quality of life. Grantees are given flexibility in deciding how funding can be used to meet State preventive health priorities. Funds may be used for activities consistent with achieving the year 2000 health objectives, community fluoridation efforts, control of rodents, emergency medical services systems, and sex offense prevention and services programs. Many states have used funding for cardiovascular disease prevention programs, injury prevention activities, and public health education efforts aimed at youth tobacco use, underage drinking, and promotion of good nutrition and increased physical activity.

Return to Federal Prevention Facts Index

Return to DHPE Main Page